Shepard School Programs
School-to-Work Transition Program
The transition from school life to the working world is often difficult for young people, particularly those with disabilities. The School to Work Program at Shepard Schools helps students to develop the independent life skills and positive self-image they need to survive and thrive as young adults. Students participate in a "real world" based program that includes job sampling and supported employment, with emphasis on self- advocacy training, independent/daily living skills, career awareness and community participation.
Who It's For
Fifth year high school students who plan to go on to regular employment after graduation, and who can benefit from career education,
social awareness skills, and an understanding of rules as an important component of success.
How It Works:
Community based job sampling vocational assessments allow students a first-hand look at how a real work environment functions. A three-tiered supported employment system utilizes job development, job coaching and "follow along" services to allow each student to participate in all aspects of a job, with the goal of transitioning to full time independent employment.
A program of self-advocacy training focuses on proper communication skills, hygiene, peer interaction and appropriate behaviors, while the Shepard Schools Skills Room offers a dedicated area in which to learn essential employment skills such as workplace computer use, clerical and functional money skills.
Students participate in job sampling through Structured Learning Experiences (SLE) at local business. Sites supporting our program include: Advanced Auto Parts-RockawayHuffman Koos-RockawaySeaton Hackney Stables-MorristownSt. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center-MadisonCentury 21-MorristownNeighborhood House-MorristownGood Will-PequannockHome Goods-PequannockApplebee’s-ButlerJoAnn’s Fabrics-RiverdaleResidence Inn-ParsippanyBarnes and Noble-ParsippanyReStore-Habitat for Humanity-RandolphWalgreens-RockawayTJMAXX-MorristownStaples-MorristownThe Office Tavern Grill-MorristownMorristown Soup KitchenMarty’s Reliable Cycle Shop-Morristown.